Assessment of farmers' understanding of the Sustainable Land Management technologies that were implemented in Mabona ward, Isingiro town council Isingiro district

Abstract

Land degradation is a key challenge to crop and livestock productivity in Uganda especially in the land degradation hotspots of; the cattle corridor, the Lake Victoria crescent, Eastern and Southwestern Highlands and Northern Uganda. Sustainable Land Management (SLM) technologies;(contour bunds woodlots, agroforestry) have been implemented to address the land degradation challenges in Uganda. The effectiveness of these technologies has been assessed but the farmers' understanding and appreciation of the SLM technologies has not been assessed. This study presents results of the survey that was conducted in Mabona ward, Isingiro town council Isingiro district. The aim of this study was to assess the farmers understanding and appreciation of the Sustainable Land Management technologies extended to them. Both qualitative and quantitative research strategies were used to conduct the study. A study sample of 60 farmers was randomly selected. Data was collected using both primary and secondary sources with questionnaires as the major collection tool. Both qualitative and quantitative research strategies were used to conduct the research. The study sample,60 farmers were randomly selected. Data was collected using both primary and secondary sources with a questionnaire as the major data collection tool. Results show that contour bunds (Fanya ju and Fanya chin), agroforestry, woodlots and stone bunds were implemented. The major factors influencing farmers understanding of the SLM technologies include age, education level, slope of the land, farm size , access to credit and level of participation. The findings confirm the importance of these technologies in improving agricultural productivity. The study recommends more extension services, encouraging the young people to take up agricultural activities as well as changing the mindset of farmers and the way they view SLM in terms of land and capital requirements.